In a nutshell

This study examined lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with BRCA 1 or 2 genetic mutations (permanent change). This study concluded that urinary flow was lower in men with this mutation compared to those without. Authors also concluded that men with BRCA 1 mutations had differing symptoms than did men with BRCA 2 mutations.

Some background

The breast cancer susceptibility genes (BRCA 1 and 2) are involved in the repair of DNA (genetic material) and the growth of new cells. Men with mutations in these genes are at an increased risk of breast and prostate cancers. One study noted that men with a BRCA 1 mutation had a 4.65 times increased risk of developing prostate cancer. The association of BRCA mutations and LUTS or BPH is not clear.

Methods & findings

This study examined factors associated with LUTS and BPH in men with BRCA mutations. This study included 117 patients. 87 were carriers of a BRCA mutation. Roughly one third of these men had the BRCA 2 mutation. Urine flow, prostate size, and PSA levels were tested.

Urine flow was higher in men without BRCA mutations compared to those with the mutations. Men with a BRCA 1 mutation had larger prostate glands and higher PSA levels than men with BRCA 2 mutations.

The bottom line

This study concluded that BRCA mutations are associated with decreased urine flow, and different mutations have different effects.